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Arulmigu Thiru Ardhanareeswarar Temple, or Arthanareeswarar Temple, is a Hindu temple which has been devoted to the famous deity of Arthanareeswarar, which is one of the forms of Shiv-Parvati. It is the androgynous incarnation of Lord Shiva and Parvati. It is the visualisation of a blend of male and female energies that represents the idea of both balance and equality. Located on a hill in Tiruchengode Town of Tamil Nadu, it is one of the most prominent places of worship in Tamil Nadu, attracting hundreds of pilgrims daily.
Quick Details About Ardhanareeswarar Temple
Location: Ardhanareeswarar Hills, Temple Road, Tiruchengode, Namakkal District, Tamil Nadu
Elevation: 198.12 metres (650 feet) (1900 feet from main sea level)
Timings: 6 AM-2 PM; 3 – 7 PM
Best Time To Visit: October – March
Nearest Railway Station: Erode (About 25 km) Sankari Durg (About 8 km)
Nearest Airport: Salem Airport (About 50 km)
Important Festivals:Chithirai Festival, Vinayak Chathurthi, Kedara Gowri Viratham, Vaikasi Visagam
About Ardhanareeswarar Temple
Photo: Ssriram mt / Wikimedia Commons
The idol here is an immensely beautiful Ardhanareeswarar deity sculpture, with Lord Shiva’s right half and Goddess Parvathi’s left half. To reach the temple, one has to climb about 1200 steps, although there is a roadway for vehicular traffic as well. On the way, you can see some temples and mandapams, which will enhance your spiritual experience and deepen yourdevotion. On the same hill, a little distance from the main temple, there is a smaller shrine of Lord Vinyaka. Chenkottu Velavar Temple of Lord Murugan is also present on the same hill.
How To Reach
Photo: Thamizhpparithi Maari / Wikimedia Commons
By Air: The nearest airport is Salem Airport, which is approximately 45-50 km from here and the other is Coimbatore International Airport which is about 120-130 km out.
By Train:Erode Railway Station is the nearest important railway station, at a distance of nearly 25 km. Namakkal Railway Station is also within reach, at a distance of about 30-35 km.
By Road: Tiruchengode is easily accessible by road from Chennai, Coimbatore, Trichy, Salem, Erode, and Namakkal. Buses come and go to Tiruchengode.
Places To Visit Around Arulmigu Thiru Ardhanareeswarar Temple
1. Namakkal Sree Anjaneyar Temple
Photo: Adityamadhav83 / Wikimedia Commons / Image For Representation Only
If you wish to make this trip completely devotional, you must visit this temple. Another temple in Namakkal which can be described as the epitome of spirituality is Anjaneyar which is dedicated to Lord Hanuman. This particular temple is unique because it possesses around eighteen-foot-tall Lord Hanuman statue, which is believed to be self-manifested.
Distance From Temple: About 37 km
Timings: 6:30 AM – 1:30 PM; 4:30 – 8:30 PM
Things To Do: Offer prayer, explore rock-cut architecture, and enjoy the scenic view during the trek
2. Namakkal Fort
Photo: Thamizhpparithi Maari / Wikimedia Commons
At an elevation on the hill, the fort is historic in its origin from the Thirumalai Nayak period and offers a remarkable eye view over Namakkal town. It has a Narasimha Murthy Temple, a form of the Vishnu deity, and a Narasimha temple carved out of rock. Also, there is a mosque located inside the fort. It is a must-visit nearby place if you’re interested in ancient history and architecture.
Distance From Temple: About 38 km
Timings: 6 AM – 5 PM
Ticket: Entry Free
Things To Do: Learn about ancient building styles, view scenic landscapes, and visit adjoining and nearby temples
3. Bhavani Sangameswarar Temple
Photo: Shanze1 / Wikimedia Commons
The temple, also known by the names Thirunana, Thirukooduthuri, and Dakshina Triveni Sangamam, is situated where the three rivers Bhavani, Amutha (Agaya Gangai), and Kaveri merge. It is dedicated to Lord Shiva, whom the people in the area highly regard as a significant God as the protector and giver of prosperity.
Distance From Temple: About 32 km
Timings: 5:30 AM – 1 PM; 4 – 8 PM
Things To Do: Devoting a prayer, take a bath at the junction, and enjoy at riverside
4. Arulmigu Kailasanathar Temple
Photo: Rk root / Wikimedia Commons / Image For Representation Only
This temple can be found in Tiruchengode, which is also a temple dedicated to Lord Shiva. The temple boasts of beautifully designed buildings, making it a place of great religious importance. Since it is less populated, it is also calm and serene, allowing you to enjoy a peaceful holiday. In addition, it forms one of the subsidiary temples of Ardhanareeswarar temple.
Distance From Temple: About 4 km
Timings: 6 AM-12 PM; 4-8 PM
Things To Do: Offer prayers, admire the architecture of the temple, and attend temple festivities
5. Kolli Hills
Photo: Prasanth 05 / Wikimedia Commons
Kolli Hills lies around ninety kilometres from the town of Tiruchengode. If you are an adventure lover, the hills are the ultimate destination and reason for admiration. They have mountains, trekkers’ trails, waterfalls like Agaya Gangai Falls, and beautiful greenery to explore.
Distance From Temple: About 91 km
Things To Do: Enjoying waterfall, trekking, nature walks, hiking, exploring nearby temples
Where To Stay
Photo: Derek Jensen / Wikimedia Commons / Image For Representation Only
Tiruchengode has its unique places to stay with hotel services, including Dharamshalas, guesthouses, and hotels. The places best suited for this include:
Sri Kumaran Castle: This hotel is situated close to the temple, where you can stay in clean, spacious air-conditioned rooms at reasonable prices.
Hotel Jothi: Hotel Jothi guarantees simple but safe stay for those who need a comfortable stay during their holiday. There is a restaurant in this hotel as well.
If you wish to reside in the nearby cities, Salem or Erode are both options to consider.
Where To Eat
Photo: Basile Morin / Wikimedia Commons / Image For Representation Only
Moving further into Tiruchengode you can find many local restaurants, Dhaba’s, local food and street food serving many varieties.
Saravana Bhavan: This restaurant offers quality food at affordable rates. It uses fresh ingredients and serves a variety of South Indian dishes..
Erode Ponnusamy High-Class Vegetarian Restaurant: Located on Sankagiri-Tiruchengode Road, this restaurant serves a range of dishes, including Veg Thali, Pongal, Gobi Manchurian, and many wholesome dishes.
Other Factors To Consider
Trek Preparation: If you wish to climb the steps, try to start early and carry enough water bottles, as well as quick energy snacks. Wear comfortable shoes.
Dressing: Within the temple vicinity, try to dress in appropriate traditional attire or modest dresses, respecting the beliefs of the faith and the religious significance of the temple.
Weather: The period between November and March is suitable for visiting and climbing the temple; otherwise, do not wait.
Cost Of The Trip: The trip to Arulmigu Thiru Ardhanareeswarar Temple generally costs ₹3000 to 6000 including travel, accommodation, and food. But it varies according to your choices and the duration of the trip.
The Arulmigu Thiru Ardhanareeswarar Temple, with its distinct deity and its location on the mountain, adds a spiritual touch to your visit. Whether you go sightseeing or as a devotee, you will gain an insightful view of the traditions, rich customs, and ornate architecture of the temple. Don’t miss this amazing opportunity to visit one of the most famous temples in Tamil Nadu. Book now with TripXL to enjoy a hassle-free and enjoyable journey.
Cover Photo: Ssriram mt / Wikimedia Commons
